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Sexual and Reproductive Health

Sexual and reproductive health encompasses HIV, STIs, BBVs, unintended pregnancy, infertility, contraception, sexual dysfunction, and also the ability to have a responsible, satisfying and safe sex life, maintain respectful relationships and to be free to exercise one’s reproductive rights (McMichael, 2008; World Health Organization (WHO): Department of Reproductive Health and Research, 2006). It is a broad area that is influenced by a large web of factors including sexual behaviour and cultural attitudes, societal factors, biological risk and genetic predisposition. Mental health, violence, acute and chronic illnesses, alcohol, insecure housing, and unsupportive social relationships also play a significant role in sexual and reproductive health.

Of special concern for people from refugee backgrounds are experiences of torture and trauma, violence, forced migration, deprivation, and inter-generational conflict. Women have been particularly affected by war-related sexual violence including rape, torture and sexual slavery (Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture, 2005). Many come from countries with a high prevalence of sexual disease, for example, 59% of all adults living with HIV are women living in sub-Saharan Africa (Drummond et al., 2008; Victorian Foundation for Survivors of Torture, 2005).